Roadmap for Reopening: Step 3

Last week, the provincial government approved that as of Friday, July 16th, we will be moving to Step 3 of the “Roadmap for Reopening” plan. Following are the updated guidelines from the Archdiocese of Toronto: 

For Sacramental celebrations: There is no capacity limit for places of worship. However, physical distancing of 2 meters is still required between parishioners attending Mass who are not from the same household. 

For funerals: The Bereavement Authority of Ontario is no longer implementing a maximum capacity restriction for funerals. Similar to other Sacramental celebrations, there are no capacity restrictions for funerals as long as 2 meters of physical distancing can be maintained between attendees who are not from the same household. 

We are ensuring that the WorshipSafe guidelines are followed. The usage of masks indoors will continue at this time, even for those who are fully vaccinated. 

Congregational singing is not permitted at this time; however, a cantor or small choir may be utilized if participants are 3 meters from one another and any member of the congregation. 

 Livestreaming of services will continue and the dispensation from the Sunday obligation continues. The elderly and those with compromised immune systems or other health conditions should be encouraged to exercise caution about any outings, including attendance at Church. 

We are hopeful that in the weeks ahead, we will be able to remove additional restrictions that have been in place over the past year. Thank you once again for your patience and flexibility as we care for the faithful and one another.